On January 2nd, the year for the Jacksonville Jaguars will officially end. Current Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver sold the franchise to new owner Shahid Khan, but Weaver still holds control until January 4th. Weaver has noted on multiple occasions he will be a part of the process when selecting the new head coach, helping out Khan in his first hire. "I'll be helpful wherever I can. He's got to hire a new coach and start planning for free agency and start planning for the draft. All that work is in progress. He needs to be a big part of that,'' Weaver told Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union. ESPN South blogger Paul Kuharsky thinks Weaver should probably just back away, instead.
Yes, Khan needs to be a big part of it. He needs to be the biggest part of that. And in so doing, Weaver needs to be a small part of it. And by small part, I'm talking microscopic. Weaver's most recent hiring record is poor. He hired and stuck with James Harris as the team's personnel chief and Jack Del Rio as coach. That's not a résumé that qualifies Weaver, as an outgoing owner, for much of a say in the next hire. Weaver remained behind the scenes for most of the season and now he is visible. I fear he wants to be out front one last time.
Sorry Wayne, but Jacksonville fans should be absolutely wary of having any of your fingerprints on this move. Fresh air and a fresh viewpoint have arrived, and there is a new sheriff in town. He'll call you with questions and a smooth transfer of power will be lovely and all. But it's his deal now. Please don't talk about Khan being a big part of it. Talk about him being all of it as you gracefully back away.
Kuharksy's point is very valid. I'm not sure how involved in the process Weaver will be, but this is Khan's baby now. Weaver undoubtedly should assist where necessary, but his voice should be small. The decision should ultimately be up to Shad Khan. He's banged the drum that this will be the number one decision that will drive the franchise for the next few years.